UFC 307 had some fantastic fights and some intriguing controversies. The Salt Lake City card had it all, from dominant victories to unfortunate upsets. It also included stories of fighters who overcame adversity. One of them was UFC veteran Court McGee, who made a triumphant return.
Court McGee opened the fight card at UFC 307 against Tim Means. McGee, coming from a three-fight losing streak, submitted Means in the first round. When asked about his triumphant comeback, the veteran became emotional, remembering past struggles with alcohol and drugs.
Just another guy who overcame adversity. I can’t forget how sh** it was when I was homeless and strung out. My biggest accomplishment in life is I didn’t drink or use today. Not the big win.
Court McGee via UFC 307 post-fight presser
UFC 307 turned out to be an action-packed fight card. Hailing from Utah, McGee got a huge response from fight fans at UFC 307. The homegrown hero was given the responsibility to set the tone of the card, and he did exactly that. McGee was also emotional during the Octagon interview with Joe Rogan. He made sure to thank the massive crowd cheering for him.
Court McGee fights back tears after his win at #UFC307:
“My biggest accomplishment in life is I didn’t drink or use today. Not the big win.” pic.twitter.com/5fCKMQCuVn
— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) October 5, 2024
Injuries are common in fighting, and McGee suffered a neck injury for which he went through surgery in 2021. He had been dealing with pain and weakness for some time, which impacted his performance in training and fights. However, now the Utah-based fighter is feeling better; his latest win was a testament to it.
How did Court McGee use his UFC opportunity to change his life?
Court McGee got into alcohol and substance abuse very early in his life. He was addicted to painkillers, which amplified over time and led to severe repercussions. At the age of 21, McGee almost lost his life after overdosing on heroin. McGee survived and decided to change his life by going to rehabilitation.
During his recovery, McGee picked up his love for combat sports. The training gave him a sense of purpose and a positive outlet. It allowed him to stay sober despite the discipline, structure, and obstacles of mixed martial arts competition. However, the process wasn’t easy, as he relapsed and found himself in a terrible situation.
I took one drink in Vegas, and I ended up in Iowa four days later with no pants on and a long sleeve shirt, looking for meth. I decided after that, it looks like I’m not gonna be drinking anymore.
Court McGee via The Ultimate Fighter
McGee’s big break came when he won ‘The Ultimate Fighter’ Season 11, earning a UFC contract. His relentless fighting technique and training demonstrated his win over addiction. Over the years, many top fighters, including Conor McGregor have found themselves getting trapped in addiction. However, for McGee, it was definitely a story of survival.
